One of Them Days marks the impressive directorial debut of Lawrence Lamont and has already etched its place as one of the standout films of the year. The narrative follows two friends, Alyssa and Dreux, portrayed by SZA and Keke Palmer, whose financial stability is jeopardized when Alyssa’s boyfriend irresponsibly steals their rent money. As they scramble to recover the lost funds before eviction, the stress of their lives exacerbates, leading to a captivating exploration of friendship and resilience. The film has seen remarkable success at the box office, underscoring the continued demand for adult comedies in the cinematic landscape.
More than just a comedy, One of Them Days draws its essence from the rich tradition of mature comedies of the 1980s and 90s. Lamont skillfully blends endearing characters with dark humor to delve into profound themes, particularly emphasizing community and friendship. Set against the vibrant backdrop of an all-black neighborhood in Los Angeles, the film comments on the cultural divides present within the city. While comparisons to Tyler Perry’s cinematic style have emerged, it’s worth recognizing the influence of a variety of filmmakers and projects that may have shaped Lamont’s vision.
10 Life (1999)
Directed By Ted Demme
Featuring Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence, Ted Demme’s Life delivers uproarious energy reminiscent of One of Them Days. The plot chronicles two friends wrongly imprisoned for crimes they didn’t commit, illustrating both the comedic bonds of friendship and the injustices faced by minorities. This film brilliantly walks the fine line between humor and serious commentary, making it a classic in its own right.
9 Tag (2018)
Directed By Jeff Tomsic
Often dismissed as uninspired, Tag possesses a unique charm with its simple yet engaging storytelling. The film showcases a group of friends engaged in a decades-long game of tag, played out in amusing and unexpected scenarios. It’s a light-hearted buddy comedy that deserves appreciation for its playful spirit and confident narrative style.
8 White Chicks (2004)
Directed By Keenen Ivory Wayans
At its core, One of Them Days serves as a commentary on the disparities faced by black communities. Similarly, White Chicks tackles political issues through absurdity, following two agents who disguise themselves as white women to prevent a kidnapping. The film employs slapstick humor to address significant societal themes while keeping the audience entertained.
7 She’s Gotta Have It (1986)
Directed By Spike Lee
Between Lamont’s debut and Spike Lee’s She’s Gotta Have It, there’s an evident thematic connection. Both narratives intertwine comedy and romantic elements to discuss pressing issues like female autonomy and toxic masculinity. Lee’s film features his signature intimate storytelling, exemplified by Tracy Camilla Johns’ captivating performance, and it solidifies its status beyond being just an early work.
6 Juno (2007)
Directed By Jason Reitman
Another film that resonates with the spirit of One of Them Days is Juno. This coming-of-age story follows Juno MacGuff as she navigates teenage pregnancy. Its light-hearted approach to serious themes and the chemistry between Elliot Page and Michael Cera mirrors the dynamic seen between SZA and Palmer’s characters, providing audiences with a charming narrative filled with poignant moments.
5 Dear White People (2014)
Directed By Justin Simien
The relationship dynamics in One of Them Days, particularly between the two leads and their new white neighbor, echo the exploration of community found in Dear White People. This astute dark comedy follows black students navigating life at a predominantly white college, focusing on their interactions and the humor that arises from their contrasting backgrounds and experiences.
4 Plan B (2021)
Directed By Natalie Morales
One of the standout qualities of One of Them Days is its unscripted charm, and Plan B shares this essence. The film follows two young girls on a frantic quest for an emergency contraception pill in rural South Dakota, showcasing the comedic chemistry and spontaneity between the lead characters as they encounter a series of humorous and unexpected challenges.
3 Superbad (2007)
Directed By Greg Mottola
Cited as one of the greatest comedies, Superbad features a touching, authentic portrayal of adolescence. The film’s keen humor and nuanced characters, brought to life by Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, and Christopher Mintz-Plasse, resonate deeply, a narrative approach that is mirrored in One of Them Days, which places character-driven stories at its core.
2 Game Night (2018)
Directed By John Francis Daley & Jonathan Goldstein
Game Night stands out as one of the most underrated comedies, cleverly disguising a well-crafted narrative under its playful premise. This film revolves around friends whose game night spirals into chaos when they encounter real-life criminals. With standout performances from Rachel McAdams and Jason Bateman, its blend of humor and smart writing ensures that every moment captivates the audience.
1 Do The Right Thing (1989)
Directed By Spike Lee
Notably, Lamont’s direction draws strong parallels to Spike Lee’s work, particularly with Do The Right Thing. This landmark film remains a definitive comedic examination of social dynamics through an ensemble cast navigating one pivotal Brooklyn day in the summer. Lee’s ability to weave natural and spontaneous dialogue immerses viewers into the lives of Mookie and his neighbors—qualities that echo in Lamont’s approach with One of Them Days, especially through the interactions of Palmer and SZA’s characters.